Japan’s Emperor Naruhito met with U.S. President Donald Trump on Monday evening at the Imperial Palace, marking their first meeting in about six and a half years.
The U.S. president arrived at palace in the presidential state car at around 6:30 p.m. The Emperor welcomed him at the entrance with a warm smile and a handshake before they proceeded inside for a meeting that lasted for about 30 minutes.
During the talks, Trump expressed his honor at the opportunity to speak with the Emperor and voiced his intention to further deepen Japan-U.S. relations under the administration of newly appointed Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi, according to the Imperial Household Agency.
Emperor Naruhito said he hoped the visit would contribute to strengthening the long-standing friendship between the two nations.
Trump also outlined his efforts to address global conflicts since returning to office.
The Emperor responded that he is pained by the continued conflicts around the globe and that he prays for peace.
